Home › San Francisco Attractions › Golden Gate Park › Historic Carousel & Koret Children’s Quarter
Historic Carousel & Koret Children’s Quarter
The Koret Children’s Quarter and historic carousel are among Golden Gate Park’s best family stops—and among its most historically important recreation sites. The playground traces its roots to 1888, while the current Herschell-Spillman carousel was built in 1914 and carries 62 hand-painted animals.
One of America’s Earliest Public Playgrounds
The playground opened in 1888 as the Sharon Quarters for Children and is widely described as one of the nation’s first public playgrounds. At the time, creating a dedicated public space specifically for children’s recreation was a remarkably new idea.
The playground was extensively renovated and reopened in 2007 as the Koret Children’s Quarter. Modern climbing structures were added while the beloved historic concrete slide was retained.
The 1914 Herschell-Spillman Carousel
The current carousel was built in 1914 by the Herschell-Spillman Company. Before reaching Golden Gate Park, it operated in Los Angeles and Portland and appeared at the Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island.
It was installed in Golden Gate Park around 1940, later closed for restoration in 1977 and returned to service in 1984.
The carousel features 62 painted animals including horses, a dragon, camel, frogs, dogs, roosters, pigs and other figures. Painted interior panels depict Bay Area scenery.
Planning a Family Visit
The playground includes accessible play features, picnic space and restrooms. Carousel hours are less predictable than park hours, so check before promising children a ride.
Nearby Sharon Art Studio and Robin Williams Meadow make this an easy place to spend an hour or more without crossing the park.
Nearby Golden Gate Park Stops
Sharon Art Studio, Robin Williams Meadow, the Lawn Bowling Courts and Conservatory of Flowers are all nearby. Families can also continue toward the California Academy of Sciences and Music Concourse.
Quick Facts About Historic Carousel & Koret Children’s Quarter
- The Koret Children’s Quarter and historic carousel are among Golden Gate Park’s best family stops—and among its most historically important recreation sites.
- The playground follows Golden Gate Park hours.
- The playground opened in 1888 as the Sharon Quarters for Children and is widely described as one of the nation’s first public playgrounds.
- The playground was extensively renovated and reopened in 2007 as the Koret Children’s Quarter.
- The current carousel was built in 1914 by the Herschell-Spillman Company.
- It was installed in Golden Gate Park around 1940, later closed for restoration in 1977 and returned to service in 1984.
- The carousel features 62 painted animals including horses, a dragon, camel, frogs, dogs, roosters, pigs and other figures.
- The playground includes accessible play features, picnic space and restrooms.
More Golden Gate Park Attractions Nearby
- Golden Gate Park
- Beach Chalet
- Bison Paddock
- Blue Heron Lake & Strawberry Hill
- Conservatory of Flowers
- de Young Museum
For the full park overview, museums, gardens, lakes and route planning, see the Golden Gate Park visitor guide.
See More of Golden Gate Park in One San Francisco Route
Golden Gate Park is three miles long, so smaller attractions are easiest to appreciate when they are connected with the park’s major museums, gardens, lakes and nearby neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Historic Carousel & Koret Children’s Quarter
When did the children’s playground open?
The original Sharon Quarters for Children opened in 1888 and is considered one of the nation’s earliest public playgrounds.
When was the current carousel built?
The Herschell-Spillman carousel was built in 1914.
How many animals are on the carousel?
The carousel has 62 painted menagerie animals.
What does it cost to ride?
Current listed prices are $2.50 for adults, $1 for children ages 6 to 12, and free for children 5 and under when accompanied by a paying adult.
What are the carousel hours?
Hours vary with weather, school schedules and season. San Francisco Recreation and Parks recommends calling the posted carousel status line for the latest schedule.
Is the playground accessible?
Yes. The facility lists an accessible children’s play area, accessible parking, picnic area and restroom.
Are there restrooms?
Yes, accessible restrooms are available.
Where is it?
The playground is at MLK Drive and Bowling Green Drive; the carousel is at 320 Bowling Green Drive.
What is nearby?
Sharon Art Studio, Robin Williams Meadow, Lawn Bowling Courts and eastern Golden Gate Park attractions are close by.
How long should families spend?
Allow 45 to 90 minutes for playground time and a carousel ride, longer if you picnic or add nearby attractions.
